大義

• Reading: たいぎ
• Romaji: taigi
• Kanji breakdown: 大 (tai) — great, grand; 義 (gi) — righteousness, principle
• Pronunciation: /ta.i.ɡi/

Meaning

Great cause; just cause; moral principle. A lofty ideal or overarching justification for action.

A noun denoting the grand moral or political principle that justifies significant action or sacrifice. 大義名分 (moral justification; pretext with a veneer of righteousness) is the most common compound, and can be used sincerely or sarcastically. 大義のために戦う (to fight for a great cause) conveys idealistic self-sacrifice. Used in historical, political, and ethical discourse.

Examples

1. 大義名分もないまま戦争を始めることは、国際社会から支持を得られない。 Starting a war without moral justification cannot win support from the international community.
2. 個人の利益より大義を優先した行動が、後世に語り継がれることがある。 Actions that prioritise a great cause over personal gain are sometimes passed down to future generations.
3. 大義はあっても、手段が間違っていれば支持は得られない。 Even with a just cause, if the means are wrong, support will not be forthcoming.

Usage Guide

Context: ethics, politics, history, philosophy

Tone: elevated

Origin & History

Sino-Japanese compound: 大 (tai) means great or grand, 義 (gi) means righteousness or moral principle. Together: 'the grand righteous principle.'

Cultural Context

Era: Classical-Modern

Generation: Adult

Social background: Universal